This species is distinguished by the following characters: D VI-I, 16; A I, 17; pectoral rays 18; scales in longitudinal series 66-68; scales on head, nape, or prepectoral area absent; body elongate, depth 6.6 in SL; dorsal spines progressively longer to sixth, 3.95 in SL; caudal fin pointed and moderately long, 3.0 in SL; pectoral fins reaching to above anus, 3.8 in SL; pelvic fins not reaching anus, 4.65 in SL (Ref. 75899); characterized further by pale grey body color; breast and abdomen white; anterior body below first dorsal fin with relatively large oval yellow spots, smaller and denser yellow spots posteriorly on side; cheek and operculum with orange spots; yellow bands/ spots on dorsal fin; broad dusky stripe across middle of anal fin; bluish streaks on caudal fin; plain whitish pelvic fins; united pelvic fins, presence of well developed frenum; cycloid scales covering body anteriorly, ctenoid posteriorly (Ref. 90102).